Hi All, I hope everyone is well and also your family. As a way to extend help during this time of crisis, Visa Consort in partnership with Pinoy AU, would like to offer further reduced rate (for a limited period) to anyone who would wish to engage a migration agent service. If you have conducted your research, you know that their rate is one of the most affordable in the market. Please click here for more details about the offering.

Hi to All, Please take extra care guys wherever you are, take care of your love ones too. Especially to our friends in Singapore, more being confirmed, and are through community spread, no longer from people who travelled from China. Observe proper hygiene at all times and also monitor our little ones as they often put their hands in their mouth.

Welcome to the New and Upgraded Pinoy AU Forum! We have only updated a couple of times since 2010. Apology it took some time. Some of the features are still being migrated. Please feel free to report here or email me at [email protected] if you will encounter any issues. Thank you.

Also for those that are already or on their way to AU via visa 189 or 190. I would like to know kung sino most recommended agents nyo and more or less how much total expense?

Yung mga nag DIY naman, ano naging total expenses nyo?

TIA

If you have time to read all the processess in applying then you can DIY. Engaging an agent will not increase your possibility of visa approval. It depends on the documents you provide to support your application. Agents are only there to guide you what to do, ask for requirements, etc.The total amount you save if DIY is the Agent fee. The amount you spend on English test, skills assessments, visa fee, doc authentication etc. are the same.

@AUzhm@fgs in s> @Captain_A said:
> @AUzhm said:
> Hi,
>
> Newbie here. I am thinking kung nakakaaffect ba sa paglaki ng possibility na maging positive ang result ng pag apply nyo ng visa if via agent? Or mas maganda DIY?
>
> Also for those that are already or on their way to AU via visa 189 or 190. I would like to know kung sino most recommended agents nyo and more or less how much total expense?
>
> Yung mga nag DIY naman, ano naging total expenses nyo?
>
> TIA
>
>
>
>
>
> no, it will not increase the possibility kasi ikaw pa rin nmn ang kukuha ng english test at documents mo pa din ang gagamitin, they will just guide you along the process

Well, it all depends. We’ve got clients who have approached us to fix their messy situations only because they attempted a DIY approach. In the process, they ended up spending more time and money due to honest mistakes.

It’s true, there are times when using an agent won’t increase the possibility of a successful outcome especially for those who have done thorough research and know exactly what to do. However there are a lot out there who think they know what they’re doing only to end up in a messy situation.

Engaging an agent is definitely just an option. We can’t do magic for an applicant who’s got no chance at all with migrating but for sure having one makes the whole process a lot smoother - less mistakes and more peace of mind.

From my personal experience from years back, I was once one of the many skeptics out there with regards to using an agent.I didn’t appreciate the value of a registered agent. I was confident I could do it on my own as I did my student visa by myself but then I found myself with so much confusion in the end. The more information I had the more confusing it got and didn’t know where to start. A friend recommended this agent in Sydney who only charges $1,000 - at that time that was already cheap. I then got the guidance I needed. It was probably fate because I even had no idea about the immigration rules changing back then. My agent made sure I applied for my PR before things got tighter. If I would have not met her I most likely would have not made it to Australia. Since then my perspective On agents changed. Hindi naman pala lahat peperahan ka.

@RheaMARN1171933 said:@AUzhm@fgs in s> @Captain_A said:
> @AUzhm said:
> Hi,
>
> Newbie here. I am thinking kung nakakaaffect ba sa paglaki ng possibility na maging positive ang result ng pag apply nyo ng visa if via agent? Or mas maganda DIY?
>
> Also for those that are already or on their way to AU via visa 189 or 190. I would like to know kung sino most recommended agents nyo and more or less how much total expense?
>
> Yung mga nag DIY naman, ano naging total expenses nyo?
>
> TIA
>
>
>
>
>
> no, it will not increase the possibility kasi ikaw pa rin nmn ang kukuha ng english test at documents mo pa din ang gagamitin, they will just guide you along the process

Well, it all depends. We’ve got clients who have approached us to fix their messy situations only because they attempted a DIY approach. In the process, they ended up spending more time and money due to honest mistakes.

It’s true, there are times when using an agent won’t increase the possibility of a successful outcome especially for those who have done thorough research and know exactly what to do. However there are a lot out there who think they know what they’re doing only to end up in a messy situation.

Engaging an agent is definitely just an option. We can’t do magic for an applicant who’s got no chance at all with migrating but for sure having one makes the whole process a lot smoother - less mistakes and more peace of mind.

From my personal experience from years back, I was once one of the many skeptics out there with regards to using an agent.I didn’t appreciate the value of a registered agent. I was confident I could do it on my own as I did my student visa by myself but then I found myself with so much confusion in the end. The more information I had the more confusing it got and didn’t know where to start. A friend recommended this agent in Sydney who only charges $1,000 - at that time that was already cheap. I then got the guidance I needed. It was probably fate because I even had no idea about the immigration rules changing back then. My agent made sure I applied for my PR before things got tighter. If I would have not met her I most likely would have not made it to Australia. Since then my perspective On agents changed. Hindi naman pala lahat peperahan ka.

DIY vs agent, definitely a personal choice.

i agree.
i am just speaking for those who are like me na hindi talaga financially capable to hire an agent, have time and determination to research, not complicated case and very much eager to try and risk.
if you are like me, then DIY is better but if you want the process to be smoother and you are capable then agent is a better choice.

Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree, there are a lot out there who work that way. A proper migration agent would not even push for someone to study in Australia without emphasising the fact that it is not a guaranteed pathway. Unfortunately, a lot of aspiring migrants fall into this trap.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

@brehbrehbreh it's true that there will be those types of agents. But most of the time it will depend on the applicants situation and available documents which pathway is feasible for them.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I was on subclass 457 before. During my transition to subclass 186, my employer wants me to focus on my work instead of spending time on the application. They hire a migration agent (the same agent who did my 457). All I have to do was submit documents, take IELTS, medical and thats it. Wait for about a few months and I got my 186.

@AUzhm This really depends on YOU.. But fact is having an agent/agency doesn't improve your chances of getting ITA.. But if you choose to do it yourself, take note that you have to study for months, backlog reading, monitor current ITA trends and knowing the status/ceiling of your specific job. You have to know if you have a lot of competitions on your specific job bec if yes, naturally you need to have higher score to get ITA.

So just ask yourself if you have the time and focus to do it yourself.. You have this forum to back you anytime..If not, then hire an agent/agency.

@LovellaEllen said:@AUzhm This really depends on YOU.. But fact is having an agent/agency doesn't improve your chances of getting ITA.. But if you choose to do it yourself, take note that you have to study for months, backlog reading, monitor current ITA trends and knowing the status/ceiling of your specific job. You have to know if you have a lot of competitions on your specific job bec if yes, naturally you need to have higher score to get ITA.

So just ask yourself if you have the time and focus to do it yourself.. You have this forum to back you anytime..If not, then hire an agent/agency.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

In my experience, it worked for most people specially sa mga nurses. I'm not a nurse btw, but I have a lot of friends and acquaintances who are nurses. Almost the same story and most of them started their journey by becoming a student and now PR na sila, some citizens already. And having a partner, in my experience, is not a total disadvantage for as long as he is willing to work any job.

Sa palagay ko lahat naman ng gusto makapunta sa AU ang aim is PR or work visa at the least. The question is, do you qualify to apply for it? yun lang naman tanong dun. And if you fail to meet the requirements, then one can choose other options which is either quit the au dream or become a student and be ready for hardships. Karamihan naman sa nakilala ko na nagstart sa student e sanay sa hirap, hindi pihikan at hindi maluho. Sakripisyo talaga muna at tyaga sa umpisa. saka na ang walwal kapag PR na.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

In my experience, it worked for most people specially sa mga nurses. I'm not a nurse btw, but I have a lot of friends and acquaintances who are nurses. Almost the same story and most of them started their journey by becoming a student and now PR na sila, some citizens already. And having a partner, in my experience, is not a total disadvantage for as long as he is willing to work any job.

Sa palagay ko lahat naman ng gusto makapunta sa AU ang aim is PR or work visa at the least. The question is, do you qualify to apply for it? yun lang naman tanong dun. And if you fail to meet the requirements, then one can choose other options which is either quit the au dream or become a student and be ready for hardships. Karamihan naman sa nakilala ko na nagstart sa student e sanay sa hirap, hindi pihikan at hindi maluho. Sakripisyo talaga muna at tyaga sa umpisa. saka na ang walwal kapag PR na.

Can I ask, anong age range nung mga kilala mo? and what year or years to? siguro kaunti lang kilala ko kaya i said what i said. I moved to au, more than two years ago. friends ko mga 38 pataas. wala ako nakausap pa na success story from a student visa from a little more than 2yrs ago and age 38 pataas. Kaya i guess i said what i said. none of them studied nursing as well, so hindi nga siguro ako reliable . and yung any job for the partner, yeah i guess it depends anong career yung iniiwan mo sa pinas. ang mahal kasi ng tuition talaga. anway, good luck to everyone

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

In my experience, it worked for most people specially sa mga nurses. I'm not a nurse btw, but I have a lot of friends and acquaintances who are nurses. Almost the same story and most of them started their journey by becoming a student and now PR na sila, some citizens already. And having a partner, in my experience, is not a total disadvantage for as long as he is willing to work any job.

Sa palagay ko lahat naman ng gusto makapunta sa AU ang aim is PR or work visa at the least. The question is, do you qualify to apply for it? yun lang naman tanong dun. And if you fail to meet the requirements, then one can choose other options which is either quit the au dream or become a student and be ready for hardships. Karamihan naman sa nakilala ko na nagstart sa student e sanay sa hirap, hindi pihikan at hindi maluho. Sakripisyo talaga muna at tyaga sa umpisa. saka na ang walwal kapag PR na.

Can I ask, anong age range nung mga kilala mo? and what year or years to? siguro kaunti lang kilala ko kaya i said what i said. I moved to au, more than two years ago. friends ko mga 38 pataas. wala ako nakausap pa na success story from a student visa from a little more than 2yrs ago and age 38 pataas. Kaya i guess i said what i said. none of them studied nursing as well, so hindi nga siguro ako reliable . and yung any job for the partner, yeah i guess it depends anong career yung iniiwan mo sa pinas. ang mahal kasi ng tuition talaga. anway, good luck to everyone

Age range would be mid 20s to mid 30s. about the partners, I know a few having the same scenario of both of them RN in Ph, Student si main applicant and secondary si partner, main studies & work and partner works as well, main enrolls bridging while partner still works, main gets nursing license and continues working, main gets sponsorship then partner starts bridging. work done by the partners mostly not nursing related. Some of them struggled due to wrong choices and wrong agents but still managed to get their PR.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

In my experience, it worked for most people specially sa mga nurses. I'm not a nurse btw, but I have a lot of friends and acquaintances who are nurses. Almost the same story and most of them started their journey by becoming a student and now PR na sila, some citizens already. And having a partner, in my experience, is not a total disadvantage for as long as he is willing to work any job.

Sa palagay ko lahat naman ng gusto makapunta sa AU ang aim is PR or work visa at the least. The question is, do you qualify to apply for it? yun lang naman tanong dun. And if you fail to meet the requirements, then one can choose other options which is either quit the au dream or become a student and be ready for hardships. Karamihan naman sa nakilala ko na nagstart sa student e sanay sa hirap, hindi pihikan at hindi maluho. Sakripisyo talaga muna at tyaga sa umpisa. saka na ang walwal kapag PR na.

Can I ask, anong age range nung mga kilala mo? and what year or years to? siguro kaunti lang kilala ko kaya i said what i said. I moved to au, more than two years ago. friends ko mga 38 pataas. wala ako nakausap pa na success story from a student visa from a little more than 2yrs ago and age 38 pataas. Kaya i guess i said what i said. none of them studied nursing as well, so hindi nga siguro ako reliable . and yung any job for the partner, yeah i guess it depends anong career yung iniiwan mo sa pinas. ang mahal kasi ng tuition talaga. anway, good luck to everyone

Age range would be mid 20s to mid 30s. about the partners, I know a few having the same scenario of both of them RN in Ph, Student si main applicant and secondary si partner, main studies & work and partner works as well, main enrolls bridging while partner still works, main gets nursing license and continues working, main gets sponsorship then partner starts bridging. work done by the partners mostly not nursing related. Some of them struggled due to wrong choices and wrong agents but still managed to get their PR.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

In my experience, it worked for most people specially sa mga nurses. I'm not a nurse btw, but I have a lot of friends and acquaintances who are nurses. Almost the same story and most of them started their journey by becoming a student and now PR na sila, some citizens already. And having a partner, in my experience, is not a total disadvantage for as long as he is willing to work any job.

Sa palagay ko lahat naman ng gusto makapunta sa AU ang aim is PR or work visa at the least. The question is, do you qualify to apply for it? yun lang naman tanong dun. And if you fail to meet the requirements, then one can choose other options which is either quit the au dream or become a student and be ready for hardships. Karamihan naman sa nakilala ko na nagstart sa student e sanay sa hirap, hindi pihikan at hindi maluho. Sakripisyo talaga muna at tyaga sa umpisa. saka na ang walwal kapag PR na.

Can I ask, anong age range nung mga kilala mo? and what year or years to? siguro kaunti lang kilala ko kaya i said what i said. I moved to au, more than two years ago. friends ko mga 38 pataas. wala ako nakausap pa na success story from a student visa from a little more than 2yrs ago and age 38 pataas. Kaya i guess i said what i said. none of them studied nursing as well, so hindi nga siguro ako reliable . and yung any job for the partner, yeah i guess it depends anong career yung iniiwan mo sa pinas. ang mahal kasi ng tuition talaga. anway, good luck to everyone

Age range would be mid 20s to mid 30s. about the partners, I know a few having the same scenario of both of them RN in Ph, Student si main applicant and secondary si partner, main studies & work and partner works as well, main enrolls bridging while partner still works, main gets nursing license and continues working, main gets sponsorship then partner starts bridging. work done by the partners mostly not nursing related. Some of them struggled due to wrong choices and wrong agents but still managed to get their PR.

I agree. Usually at that age rekta PR visa ang priority or working visa at the least. But you'll be surprised, that there will still be a few who will insist even at the late age na kumuha ng student visa for the purpose of just going to AU in the belief that they can work things out in the 2years time frame kapag on shore na sila. And if wala na ibang option at kapos na sa oras, maghahanap na lang ng jojowain na PR or citizen para lang makakuha ng residency.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

I’m actually a product of a student visa myself and it worked for me. I came to Australia I was only 22 years of age many years ago. though I could say even if life was probably not as hard compared to others since I was financed by my parents, it was still tough but regardless of that side of things, I’m more referring to the uncertainty of this path way due to the fact that in the 2 years that you’re trying to satisfy the study requirement, policy would likely change. I nearly missed out on my chance for a PR if it would have not been for my agent back then.

Now that I’m an agent myself, I have considered many times to offer this service but decided against it. I just can’t find it within my morals to assist someone knowing the amount of money they will be spending on something I could see as uncertain. It is a messy pathway and don’t want to be a part of it at all. I’d rather lose on the commissions I would potentially earn from agencies than capitalise on the aspiring migrants desperate to make things work.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

In my experience, it worked for most people specially sa mga nurses. I'm not a nurse btw, but I have a lot of friends and acquaintances who are nurses. Almost the same story and most of them started their journey by becoming a student and now PR na sila, some citizens already. And having a partner, in my experience, is not a total disadvantage for as long as he is willing to work any job.

Sa palagay ko lahat naman ng gusto makapunta sa AU ang aim is PR or work visa at the least. The question is, do you qualify to apply for it? yun lang naman tanong dun. And if you fail to meet the requirements, then one can choose other options which is either quit the au dream or become a student and be ready for hardships. Karamihan naman sa nakilala ko na nagstart sa student e sanay sa hirap, hindi pihikan at hindi maluho. Sakripisyo talaga muna at tyaga sa umpisa. saka na ang walwal kapag PR na.

It’s a different case with nurses though since they just need to do a bridging course.

If one insists to still study, I would highly recommend IDP in Makati. Not sure if they are still located there though as I’m referring to the time I used them 20 years ago. I didn’t use a migration agent at all, they guided me but during that time internet wasnt utilised much as it is being used now. Nowadays you can find everything on the internet. The immigration website is the best source. Student visa is very straightforward, there really is no need for an agent.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

In my experience, it worked for most people specially sa mga nurses. I'm not a nurse btw, but I have a lot of friends and acquaintances who are nurses. Almost the same story and most of them started their journey by becoming a student and now PR na sila, some citizens already. And having a partner, in my experience, is not a total disadvantage for as long as he is willing to work any job.

Sa palagay ko lahat naman ng gusto makapunta sa AU ang aim is PR or work visa at the least. The question is, do you qualify to apply for it? yun lang naman tanong dun. And if you fail to meet the requirements, then one can choose other options which is either quit the au dream or become a student and be ready for hardships. Karamihan naman sa nakilala ko na nagstart sa student e sanay sa hirap, hindi pihikan at hindi maluho. Sakripisyo talaga muna at tyaga sa umpisa. saka na ang walwal kapag PR na.

It’s a different case with nurses though since they just need to do a bridging course.

If one insists to still study, I would highly recommend IDP in Makati. Not sure if they are still located there though as I’m referring to the time I used them 20 years ago. I didn’t use a migration agent at all, they guided me but during that time internet wasnt utilised much as it is being used now. Nowadays you can find everything on the internet. The immigration website is the best source. Student visa is very straightforward, there really is no need for an agent.

Yep, different scenario sa mga nurses. however they have to choose whether to take up uni then get their bridging or rekta bridging. both will have pros and cons.

Student will give you more time to prepare for the bridging since usually as a student you'll be getting a 2yrs visa. and it's not just preparing for bridging, it also gives you time to look for a good employer. maraming scenario pa ang pwede mangyari sa 2 years.

Kapag bridging naman, time is not on your side. short stay lang ang visa. so you will be only focusing on your studies and because of that hindi ka makakapag work. after getting your RN kelangan makahanap ka na kagad ng sponsor mo. or else balik ka pinas. Unfortunately, this happens to some. since paso na visa, kelangan na umuwi tapos from pinas na lang sila nag-aapply for work.

Both scenarios will not guaranty that after one gets his/her RN in au e madali na makakuha ng sponsorship. but both pathways can get you closer to having a PR.

So far, sa mga nurses there is one agency that stood out, Tagumpay Consulting Services. Au based consultancy. I dunno kung may office sila sa pinas but they usually meet their clients personally in the Ph and plan from there.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

I’m actually a product of a student visa myself and it worked for me. I came to Australia I was only 22 years of age many years ago. though I could say even if life was probably not as hard compared to others since I was financed by my parents, it was still tough but regardless of that side of things, I’m more referring to the uncertainty of this path way due to the fact that in the 2 years that you’re trying to satisfy the study requirement, policy would likely change. I nearly missed out on my chance for a PR if it would have not been for my agent back then.

Now that I’m an agent myself, I have considered many times to offer this service but decided against it. I just can’t find it within my morals to assist someone knowing the amount of money they will be spending on something I could see as uncertain. It is a messy pathway and don’t want to be a part of it at all. I’d rather lose on the commissions I would potentially earn from agencies than capitalise on the aspiring migrants desperate to make things work.

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion

@brehbrehbreh said:
Just sharing my experience din, most agents I talked to are adamant at getting you a Student Visa instead of skilled migration because they earn through the school. I have yet to meet an agency that does not immediately push you to take the school route. That's what puts me off. I once asked this MARA certified guy about 189, 190, 491, etc and he just brushed it off as "yes, you can do that, but the chances are low". Not saying he's not wrong, I just didn't prefer the student route as it's incredibly expensive, but he could have helped me at least with alternative options. I'm outside Manila btw so fewer agencies here.

I agree. No need for an agent to apply for a student visa. Save your money instead. And yes, if your intention is to move there permanently then a student visa isn’t the best option for your purpose.

Siguro itworked for some, yung student visa as a path way to PR. parang ang hirap lang kasi, grabe dinadaan ng mga yun. I guess it will all depend on anong buhay iniiwan mo sa pinas. The student path might not actually be a step forward if may edad ka na. it is really hard to put yur career on hold for 2 or more years. tas it will really be hard for your partner if meron, to get a good job with the visa restrictions and company limitations as well. Just my opinion